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James Morton joined Liverpool's backroom team in the summer of 2010 on a part-time basis, working two days a week at Melwood as a consultant nutritionist.

Originally from Belfast, he has been based at Liverpool's John Moores University for the last decade.

After completing a degree in Sports Science in 2003, he achieved a PhD in Exercise Metabolism and Sport Nutrition before being offered a role on the university's staff, later becoming a senior lecturer in exercise metabolism and sport nutrition.

James's responsibilities include liaising with the Reds' medical staff and club chefs to ensure all meals are designed to provide the players with the best possible nourishment, making certain players are correctly hydrated and energy provision is optimal.

He also communicates with the players themselves to put individual strategies in place to meet the demands of training and matches in the season and determine if they need to be allocated specialist supplements.

"We know from the match analysis data we've looked at that players become progressively fatigued throughout a game," he explains. "So much so, in the second half 50 per cent of muscle fibres are depleted of glycogen.

"One of the main issues is making sure they have enough carbohydrates in their diet - at least the day before and day of a game."

James strives to make sure each player is prepared in the best possible way for matches and training sessions, and keeping body fats low is a key task.

"Everyone has the right attitude and wants to push the club forward in the right direction," he adds.

"With the level of sport we're talking about, it's crucial we have that Sports Science input to compete at the highest level.

"I believe it can be of big benefit to the team. There is no substitute for technical ability, but if you're optimally prepared nutritionally and physically, then you're giving yourself the best possible chance."

During his time away from Melwood, the Irishman is actively engaged in research studies in an attempt to discover new innovative findings and strategies.

He admits the chance to put his expertise into practice at one of the world's biggest football clubs is a task he is relishing.

"It's a great opportunity for me to hopefully make a difference in a sport I believe needs more of an input than others," James says.

"Sports Science in professional football is a little bit behind the times compared to other sports, so it's a chance for me to educate and help progress.

"Things are changing all the time in the field of nutrition and hopefully with the university and club link, Liverpool will be at the forefront of cutting-edge innovation."